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Interview with a Mixed-assembly EMS Provider
December 31, 1969 |Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Specializing in automated SMT assembly and mixed-technology PCB assemblies (PCBAs), Innovative Circuits, Inc., of Corinth, Miss., performs a range of manufacturing and engineering services, with inspection and testing on-site. Production varies from small- through medium- and high-volume runs, depending on the customer. With two SMT lines and thru-hole capability, ISO 9001:2000-certified Innovative Circuits' 30 employees perform consignment assembly and turnkey manufacturing. SMT spoke with Jim Usery, marketing director at Innovative Circuits, about the EMS provider's operations and perspective on screen printing equipment and stencils, fine-pitch, and PCB design.
SMT: What kind of EMS and value-add services do you perform?Usery: In addition to our two SMT lines and thru-hole assembly, we offer in-circuit (ICT) and functional-level test, system integration and mechanical assembly through box build and final packaging, and prototyping. Engineering services, such as PCB layout and design, enclosed design support, hardware/software integration, and reverse engineering are available to our customers. Rework-and-repair and supply-chain management are other services offered beyond manufacturing.
SMT: Do you perform tin/lead or lead-free assembly, or both?Usery: We are performing 100% tin/lead assembly, as none of our customers have currently requested lead-free soldering. We do have several quotes in process that would require lead-free assembly; our surface mount lines have nitrogen capability for the reflow ovens, so we are prepared to begin processing lead-free on short notice.
SMT: When printing solder paste for fine-pitch devices, do you experience any challenges with small apertures, and how do you overcome challenges with cleaning, pad accuracy, or other obstacles?Usery: We have found that cleaning and pad/machine accuracy are absolutely necessary with small apertures. In some instances, we have modified the aperture size on parts, based on our experience with PCB layout and manufacturability.
SMT: Do you inspect PCBs post printing?Usery: We do a detailed visual board inspection as part of our first-article process for any production run. We use X-ray inspection for BGA and similar devices, and also incorporate optical-magnification inspection. Each board is then visually inspected briefly as it moves from component placement towards the reflow oven, to identify any overt mis-placements, missing components, etc.
SMT: What do you consider when purchasing capital printing equipment? Do you update systems often?Usery: We find that printing equipment does not mandate frequent changes. It is usually selected from an equipment manufacturer that has a good track record of service and support.
SMT: What type of stencils do you use, and what advantages do you find with this type?Usery: We use laser-cut stencils for most jobs. We also have used electroformed stencils for printing some fine-pitch apertures. These are used with a metal squeegee and fiducials. We have a specialized storage rack system installed near the screen printer for storing stencils securely in a vertical position. SMT
Jim Usery, marketing director at Innovative Circuits, can be contacted at jusery@icimfg.com. To learn more about Innovative Circuits, Inc., access free articles and documents (including "Are You Becoming E-Wasted" and "Basics on Manufacturing PCBs"), and join the company's newsletter, visit its Website, www.icimfg.com.